Our Story
Three Generations.
One Commitment to Quality.
Anaheim Signs is a third-generation, family-owned sign company in Anaheim, California. Owner Rick Hobbs holds California Electric Sign Contractor License #490521 and has been designing, fabricating, and installing commercial signs across Orange County since 1982.
CA Electric Sign Contractor
License #490521
Meet the Owner
Rick Hobbs &
The Hobbs Family
Rick Hobbs has spent his entire career in the sign industry — learning the trade from the inside out, from hand-painting letters to operating CNC routers and programming LED controllers. He represents the third generation of his family to run Anaheim Signs.
What makes Rick different from the average sign salesperson is simple: he actually builds signs. When you describe your project to Rick, you’re talking to someone who understands the fabrication process, knows what’s structurally possible, and can spot potential permit issues before they become expensive surprises.
That hands-on expertise is why clients come back to Anaheim Signs project after project, and why so much of our work comes through word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied customers throughout Orange County.
“I take pride in knowing that every sign we build is something I’d put my name on — because I literally do. We’re not a franchise or a chain. We’re a family business, and your sign represents our reputation.”— Rick Hobbs, Owner
Our History
40+ Years of Sign Making
1982
Anaheim Signs
The Hobbs family purchases Anaheim Signs in Orange County, bringing traditional sign-making craft to Southern California's growing commercial market.
1990s
Expanding into Electric & Illuminated Signs
As neon and fluorescent illuminated signs became the industry standard, Anaheim Signs earned its California Electric Sign Contractor license and expanded capabilities.
2000s
Channel Letters Become Our Specialty
With the explosion of strip mall retail in Orange County, channel letter signs became our most in-demand product. We invested in fabrication equipment and in-house design capabilities.
2010s
LED Technology & The Next Generation
We fully transitioned to LED illumination technology, dramatically improving sign quality and energy efficiency for our clients. The third generation of the Hobbs family joined the business.
Today
Orange County's Most Trusted Sign Shop
With over 40 years in business and hundreds of signs across Orange County, Anaheim Signs continues to be the region's go-to source for commercial sign fabrication and installation.
What We Stand For
Why Businesses Choose Anaheim Signs
Family Ownership
When you call Anaheim Signs, you talk to Rick Hobbs directly. No call centers, no account managers — just the person who will actually build your sign.
In-House Craftsmanship
We design, fabricate, and install every sign ourselves. No outsourcing. No surprises. Complete quality control from start to finish.
Honest Pricing
We provide clear, itemized quotes. You'll always know exactly what you're paying for — no hidden fees, no surprises after the contract is signed.
Permit Expertise
Orange County has complex sign codes. We handle all city permits, HOA approvals, and engineering submittals — a service many smaller shops can't offer.
Common Questions
About Working With Anaheim Signs
Is Anaheim Signs a licensed sign contractor in California?
Yes. Owner Rick Hobbs holds California Electric Sign Contractor License #490521, issued by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). This C-45 license is required for all illuminated sign fabrication and installation in California. You can verify our license at cslb.ca.gov.
How long has Anaheim Signs been in business?
Anaheim Signs was founded in 1982, giving us over 40 years of continuous operation in Orange County. The Hobbs family has run the business across three generations — making us one of the longest-established sign shops in Southern California.
What areas does Anaheim Signs serve?
We serve all of Orange County and surrounding Southern California communities, including Anaheim, Fullerton, Orange, Santa Ana, Irvine, Huntington Beach, Brea, Placentia, Yorba Linda, Garden Grove, and beyond. We've installed signs for businesses in 100+ cities across the region.
Do you handle permits for sign installations?
Yes — permit handling is one of our core service advantages. Most exterior commercial signs require a city sign permit, and illuminated signs also need electrical permits. Orange County cities have varying sign codes. We handle all applications, engineering submittals, and city coordination on your behalf.
How do I get a quote for a new business sign?
Call Rick directly at (714) 270-0322 or use our contact form. We'll ask about your location, sign type, size, and branding. For most projects, we can provide a ballpark estimate quickly — and a detailed written quote after a site visit or review of your plans.
What makes Anaheim Signs different from national sign franchises?
As a family-owned shop, we design, fabricate, and install every sign ourselves — nothing is outsourced. You deal directly with Rick, the person who actually builds your sign. National franchises often subcontract fabrication and installation, which introduces quality-control gaps and communication breakdowns that we simply don't have.
What We Build
Commercial Sign Services in Orange County
Let’s Build Your Sign Together
About Anaheim Signs
Orange County's Premier Custom Signage Manufacturing and Installation Experts.
Our Brand Statement: Who We Are & Who We Serve
We are Anaheim Signs, a premier, full-service custom sign manufacturing and installation company proudly based in the heart of Southern California. For years, we have operated at the intersection of innovative design, structural engineering, and brand marketing.
What we do: We design, fabricate, permit, and install high-visibility, commercial-grade signage. From eye-catching LED channel letters illuminating the Anaheim Resort District to sophisticated architectural monument signs in the corporate parks of Irvine, we transform your business's physical location into its most powerful marketing asset.
Who we serve: We partner with local business owners, corporate purchasers, commercial real estate developers, and prospective business buyers across Anaheim, Santa Ana, Huntington Beach, Fullerton, Brea, and the greater Orange County region. Whether you are launching a new flagship retail store, rebranding a multi-tenant corporate facility, or upgrading your hospital's wayfinding system, Anaheim Signs is your dedicated local partner.
Key Takeaway
Anaheim Signs is more than a vendor; we are a strategic partner for Orange County businesses, dedicated to translating your brand's unique identity into durable, high-impact physical signage that drives foot traffic and revenue.
The Core of Our Credibility: Why Top OC Businesses Choose Us
In a competitive marketplace like Orange County, your signage is often the very first interaction a customer has with your brand. Choosing the right sign company is a critical investment. At Anaheim Signs, our foundation is built on the industry's highest standards of Experience, Expertise, Authority, and Trustworthiness (EEAT). Here is exactly what sets us apart from the competition.
1. Unmatched Local Experience
Designing a beautiful sign is only 20% of the battle. The remaining 80% involves understanding local climate demands, municipal zoning laws, and architectural cohesion. Our team possesses deep, localized experience navigating the unique landscapes of Southern California.
Navigating City Bureaucracy: We have spent years working directly with the City of Anaheim Planning and Building Department, as well as surrounding city councils. We understand the nuances of the Anaheim Municipal Code (such as Section 15.34.140 regarding sign regulations), ensuring your project doesn't get stalled in red tape.
Climate-Resilient Fabrication: Southern California’s intense UV exposure and Santa Ana winds demand specific manufacturing protocols. Our experience ensures we select UV-resistant polycarbonates, automotive-grade paints, and reinforced aluminum extrusions that won't fade or crack under the Orange County sun.
Landmark Proximity: From the bustling corridors near the Honda Center and Angel Stadium (the Platinum Triangle) to the strict aesthetic guidelines of South County master-planned communities, we know what works, what is permitted, and what catches the eye of local consumers.
2. Technical Expertise and Craftsmanship
Expertise in the sign industry requires a mastery of graphic design, electrical engineering, and heavy construction. We do not outsource our core competencies; we control the quality from concept to concrete.
State-Licensed Professionals: We operate under a strict California C-45 Sign Contractor License. This is a critical legal requirement that guarantees our team has passed rigorous state examinations regarding building codes, electrical safety, and structural integrity. You can always verify licensed contractors through the Contractors State License Board (CSLB).
In-House Manufacturing: By fabricating our channel letters, pylon signs, and illuminated cabinets in-house, we control the timeline and the quality. We utilize precision CNC routing, automated channel letter bending machines, and advanced LED population techniques.
UL-Listed Standards: Electrical safety is non-negotiable. Every illuminated sign we produce is rigorously tested and UL-listed (Underwriters Laboratories), ensuring it meets the highest national safety standards to protect your property from electrical hazards.
3. Industry Authority
Our voice carries weight in the local signage industry because we actively align ourselves with the organizations that dictate the future of visual communications.
We closely follow the data and guidelines published by the International Sign Association (ISA) and the Sign Research Foundation. By staying updated on the latest trends—such as the shift toward energy-efficient, low-voltage LED modules and dynamic digital displays—we ensure our clients are always receiving cutting-edge advice, not outdated solutions.
4. Trustworthiness & Total Transparency
We understand that purchasing commercial signage is a significant capital expenditure. Trust is earned through transparency, guarantees, and a proven track record.
Comprehensive Warranties: We stand behind our craftsmanship. We offer robust warranties on both materials and labor, including specific guarantees on LED lighting lifespans and paint fading.
Fully Insured and Bonded: For the protection of your property and our staff, Anaheim Signs carries comprehensive general liability insurance, workers' compensation, and is fully bonded. We provide Certificates of Insurance (COI) upon request before we ever step foot on your property for installation.
Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees. Our proposals clearly line-item the costs for design, city permit acquisition, fabrication, and final installation. You will know exactly where your investment is going.
Key Takeaway
When you hire Anaheim Signs, you are securing a team backed by state licenses, UL-certified safety standards, comprehensive insurance, and an intimate knowledge of Orange County's municipal codes. We mitigate your risk while maximizing your visibility.
The Tangible ROI of High-Quality Signage
Many business owners mistakenly view signage as a mandatory operational expense rather than a high-yield marketing investment. At Anaheim Signs, we educate our clients on the data-backed reality: your physical sign is your most efficient, cost-effective advertising asset.
Consider these compelling statistics gathered from industry authorities like the Sign Research Foundation and major consumer studies:
The "Silent Salesperson": Over 76% of consumers report entering a store they had never visited before based solely on its signage. Your sign works 24/7/365, without requesting a salary or taking a day off.
Direct Impact on Revenue: Studies show that adding or updating business signage can lead to a direct, measurable sales increase of up to 10% to 16%.
Brand Perception: According to a widely cited FedEx Office survey, nearly 68% of consumers believe that a business's signage is a direct reflection of the quality of its products or services. A faded, unlit, or poorly designed sign actively turns customers away.
Impulse Purchases: For retail and food-service businesses, up to 16% of unplanned, impulse purchases are driven directly by effective in-store or exterior signage.
Real-World Example: The "Platinum Triangle" Rebrand
The Scenario: A mid-sized independent restaurant located on State College Blvd near Angel Stadium was struggling to capture evening foot traffic, despite having great reviews. Their existing sign was a non-illuminated, flat acrylic panel that was nearly invisible after sunset.
The Solution: Anaheim Signs conducted a site survey and traffic analysis. We designed, permitted, and installed a set of high-contrast, front-and-halo-lit LED channel letters mounted on a contrasting architectural raceway.
The Result: Not only did the business comply perfectly with Anaheim's strict commercial zoning ordinances, but within three months, the owner reported a 22% increase in post-6 PM dinner traffic. The sign paid for itself in less than two business quarters.
Key Takeaway
Upgrading your signage is not just an aesthetic choice; it is a proven revenue-generation strategy. A high-quality sign instantly elevates brand perception and serves as a highly effective tool for customer acquisition.
Our Step-by-Step Process: Transparency from Start to Finish
We believe that an educated client is our best client. To alleviate the stress of commercial renovations, we have refined our workflow into a transparent, predictable five-step process.
Strategic Consultation & Site Survey: We begin by listening. We discuss your brand goals, target audience, and budget. Our technicians then visit your Orange County location to take precise measurements, assess electrical access, and evaluate lines of sight for optimal visibility.
Custom Design & Engineering: Our graphic designers create detailed digital mockups, showing you exactly how the sign will look on your building (day and night views). Concurrently, our engineers ensure the design is structurally sound and meets California building codes.
Permit Acquisition (The Heavy Lifting): This is where our local expertise shines. We handle the entire permitting process. We submit the engineering drawings, property owner authorizations, and structural calculations to the city planner. Whether dealing with the City of Anaheim or the County of Orange, we navigate the bureaucracy so you don't have to.
In-House Fabrication: Once permits are secured, your sign moves to our production floor. We use premium aluminum, long-lasting acrylics, and energy-efficient LEDs to bring the design to life. You are always welcome to ask for updates or photos during this phase!
Professional Installation: Our C-45 licensed installation crew arrives on-site with our fleet of bucket trucks and cranes. We safely install the sign, connect the electrical components to your primary grid, and ensure the surrounding area is left spotlessly clean. Finally, we coordinate the final city inspection.
Key Takeaway
We offer an end-to-end, turnkey solution. From the initial sketch to the final electrical connection and city sign-off, Anaheim Signs handles every logistical hurdle in-house.
Comprehensive Commercial Signage Solutions
Every business space is unique, and so are our solutions. We specialize in a wide array of commercial signage to suit any architectural style or branding requirement.
Channel Letter Signs: The gold standard for retail and corporate storefronts. We offer front-lit, reverse-lit (halo), and open-face neon-style LED channel letters for maximum 3D impact.
Monument Signs: Perfect for business parks, residential communities, and standalone corporate headquarters. These low-profile, ground-level signs are crafted from brick, stucco, stone, or modern aluminum composites to match your building's architecture.
Pylon & Pole Signs: When you need to be seen from the freeway or across a massive parking lot, our towering pylon signs draw customers in from incredible distances.
Illuminated Cabinet Signs (Box Signs): A highly cost-effective way to display complex logos and graphics. We use high-grade translucent vinyl and bright, even LED illumination.
Vehicle Graphics & Fleet Wraps: Take your brand on the road. We use premium 3M and Avery Dennison vinyl to turn your company vehicles into mobile billboards traversing the I-5 and 405 freeways daily.
Interior & ADA Wayfinding Signage: Create a cohesive experience inside your facility with custom lobby logos, frosted glass graphics, and code-compliant tactile ADA signs for restrooms and exits.
Navigating Orange County Sign Regulations: A Mini-Guide
One of the biggest hurdles for business owners is understanding what is legally allowed. Signage codes are incredibly strict in California to maintain aesthetic harmony and traffic safety.
For example, did you know that in many commercial zones in Anaheim, the total allowable square footage of your sign is directly proportional to the linear frontage of your leased space? Or that the upcoming 2025 California Building Codes (going into effect in 2026) will introduce new structural and energy-efficiency standards for illuminated signs?
Common Permitting Hurdles We Handle:
Master Sign Programs (MSP): If you are moving into a shopping center or office park (like the Irvine Spectrum area), you must conform to the landlord's pre-approved Master Sign Program. We review these documents to ensure your design gets approved by both the landlord and the city.
Setbacks and Easements: For monument signs, we ensure your structure is placed legally outside of public right-of-ways and traffic visibility triangles.
Illumination Restrictions: Certain historical districts or residential-adjacent zones in Orange County have strict rules regarding the brightness (lumens) and the hours of operation for illuminated signs. We ensure compliance to prevent costly fines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to get a new commercial sign?
On average, a custom commercial sign takes 4 to 8 weeks from the initial consultation to final installation. The biggest variable is the city permitting process, which can take anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks depending on the municipality's backlog.
Do I need a permit for a temporary sign or a banner?
In most Orange County cities, yes. Even temporary banners, grand opening signs, or A-frames often require a Temporary Use Permit (TUP). We can advise you on the specific regulations for your exact address.
Why should I choose LED lighting over traditional Neon or Fluorescent?
LED technology is far superior for modern signage. It uses up to 80% less electricity than neon, requires virtually zero maintenance, performs better in cold weather, and is significantly safer as it operates on low voltage.
Can you repair a sign that was built by another company?
Absolutely. We offer comprehensive sign repair and maintenance services. Whether you have burnt-out bulbs, storm damage, or peeling vinyl, our technicians can restore your existing sign to its former glory.
Ready to Elevate Your Brand's Visibility?
Your business deserves signage that reflects the quality of the services you provide. Don't let potential customers drive past you. Partner with Anaheim Signs for a seamless, professional experience from concept to installation.
Serving Anaheim, Irvine, Santa Ana, and all of Orange County, CA.
Request Your Free Consultation & Quote Today